Many of us have heard the phrase ‘get a taste of something different’, but what does that really mean? Does it simply mean travel to an unfamiliar destination, or go off the beaten path for experiences you wouldn’t normally find anywhere else? If so, then there is no better place to start than in your own backyard. There are plenty of strange tourist attractions across the United States where you can enjoy weird experiences and discover unusual sights along the way. So, if looking for some odd destinations to visit over your next holiday season is a priority on your list this year, read ahead as we kick things off by giving you five strange tourist spots worth checking out!
The World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas
Cawker City, Kansas is home to a unique roadside attraction: the world’s largest ball of twine. Created by resident Frank Stoeber, this incredible feat stands an impressive 11 feet tall and has a circumference of 41.5 feet. The giant twine ball continues to be added to and today weighs over 19,000 pounds! The community organizes a yearly ‘Twine-A-Thon’ where visitors come to help add more twine onto the massive ball. It’s fair to say that Frank Stoeber created something truly spectacular, and Cawker City is more than proud of it – it’s become a true symbol of the town, drawing tourists from all around.
The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota
The Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota is a unique and remarkable attraction that has been drawing tourists since 1892. Originally built to promote the local agricultural industry, the Palace has become an international icon of rural America’s pastime of farming. The building serves as both a museum and a venue for arts and crafts shows and other events, with its exterior walls made entirely of grain such as corn, millet, rye and wheat that are formed into gorgeous murals and ornate carvings. Every summer, these murals and carvings are completely replaced with a spectacular new design crafted from beautiful colors of grain. Though it is one of the strangest attractions you will find in the US, taking a trip to the incredible Corn Palace in South Dakota is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget!
Carhenge in Alliance, Nebraska
Located in Alliance, Nebraska, Carhenge is a unique art installation replicating the iconic Stonehenge from England. Built by Jim Reinders in 1987 to honor his deceased father and modeled after Stonehenge’s exact size, Carhenge consists of 38 vintage American cars which have been painted grey to resemble stones. The interesting 14 feet tall structure not only serves as tribute to America’s car culture but has become quite the tourist attraction for visitors looking for an unusual sightseeing opportunity. Visitors can explore the sculpture alongside a visitor center that features exhibits about the creation process of the monument and historical facts about StoneHenge.
Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas
Located along the iconic Route 66, Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas is one of the most famous roadside attractions in the United States. This public art installation consists of ten Cadillacs plunging into the ground at an angle and covered with a variety of vibrant graffiti. Originally created in 1974 by members of an arts collective affiliated to The Ant Farm, Cadillac Ranch has become a popular destination for both road trippers and local residents alike who come to view its unique location, distinctive style and colorful artwork. No matter what your interest in this site may be, one thing is for sure: it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the neighborhood.
The Alien Welcome Center in Roswell, New Mexico
The Alien Welcome Center in Roswell, New Mexico is the perfect place for anyone who has ever had an interest in UFOs. Established in 1992 by the International UFO Museum and Research Center, it provides its visitors with a unique look at an incident that supposedly occurred there on July 2nd, 1947. Not only can you learn all about the event itself and the theories surrounding it, but you can also see space-related artifacts such as real astronaut suits. You’ll even have the chance to sign up for monthly lectures on space topics by experts and casual fans alike. The Alien Welcome Center provides an exciting experience not just for those curious about extraterrestrial life, but for anyone looking to learn more about our universe and our place within it.
